Japan’s Ruling Coalition Suffers Major Upper House Defeat, PM Ishiba Vows to Stay Amid Crisis
Japan’s Ruling Coalition Suffers Major Upper House Defeat, PM Ishiba Vows to Stay Amid Crisis
Japan’s ruling coalition has reportedly lost its majority in the upper house following Sunday’s elections, a significant setback that could destabilize Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s government. The outcome sees notable gains for far-right parties like Sanseito, which campaigned on an anti-immigration, “Japanese First” platform.
Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged his responsibility during a press conference but affirmed his intention to remain in power. His administration is currently engaged in crucial talks with Washington, aiming to avert a 25 percent U.S. tariff set to be imposed on August 1. This looming tariff follows criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Japan’s low imports of American rice despite domestic shortages and its resistance to increased defense spending.
This latest electoral blow comes just months after the ruling coalition ceded control of the more powerful lower House of Representatives in October last year. While the lower house selects the prime minister and can override upper house decisions on budgets and legislation, historical precedent suggests leaders often struggle to retain power after losing the upper chamber, despite Ishiba only taking office on October 1 of last year.
Former Prime Minister and CDP leader Yoshihiko Noda commented on Sunday, stating, “Clearly, people have spoken — people have said no to Ishiba’s administration.” Noda indicated he awaits Ishiba’s explanation regarding the conditions under which he intends to continue in his role.
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